Instructional Model: Andragogy & Problem-based Learning

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Andragogy & Problem-based Learning


Comparison Criteria
Model 1
Model 2

Student Centered

Student centered because an older adult student carry lifetime experiences and have additional base knowledge that can and should be used.
Student centered where they collaboratively solve problems and reflect on their experiences and new experiences learned.

Assessment

Individual reflection, observation of power and responsibilities, and the changing nature of class progress after.
Feedback and refection of what has taken place. Working from simple to complex with evidence of improvement of analytical, technical and or critical thinking skills

21st Century fluencies

Technology based instruction and move through sequence on a need to know information and applicable pace.
Actively problem solving that help in working memory limitations and learning and adapting to new learning processes.

Ease of Use

Depends on instructor’s use of facilitation, implementation of strategies for subject matter, and careful consideration of time limits and assessments.
Guidance of learning processes rather than teacher centered and only providing knowledge through lecture and text.


These two models work together well since an older adult will utilize their past experience based knowledge to learn and grow. The Problem-based Learning model is designed with this purpose in mind. It also uses problems solving for the adult learner to learn new information and compare with old information. An example of this is learning new skills such as the computer and incorporating valuable lifelong experiences. Problem based learning is capable of targeting individual learning styles that shape instructional development.
Adult learners are used to understanding what they do in life and need to know the reason they are learning something new and how it applies or will benefit them. Adult learners are problem-centered in their orientation of learning and like real life examples. Problem based learning is a good instructional strategy that would work well alongside Understanding by Design for the adult learner; however, there are other important strategies that should be considered and implemented such as technical based learning.